Opinion

[TinPan]

Some opinions please on both the high end Fender "strataccustic" and the cheaper version. sound quality and are they worth the price?

 

[jeremy]

turds

 

[Mincer]

If your expectation is that it will sound like a Martin, but play like a Strat, you will be disappointed with both. I think it is an interesting idea, as long as you don't compare it to a regular acoustic or electric. It is a 3rd option that doesn't sound like either.

 

[Wolfshead]

turds

Really? I saw them playing the expensive ones on Andertons and thought they sounded amazing. I don't like acoustics much because of the thick bodies, would have thought these would be a great compromise but I've never played one myself.

 

[ICTGoober]

The cheap ones aren't even in the same class as the high zoot models. No contest.

 

[jeremy]

the ones i played were around $2k and they really werent bad, but im spoiled and used to some very nice acoustics. the fender played fine but sonicly they didnt do much for me. if you want something that plays close to an electric and has some acousticy sounds and isnt as big as a typical acoustic, this might work for you.

 

[GuitarStv]

I've been really curious about these things too. The idea of a great sounding acoustic that can play at low volumes for night practice and can maybe handle some electric sounds in a pinch seemed so cool. Maybe it's asking too much though.

 

[beaubrummels]

For quiet acoustics that sound good, IME you'd want to go in this direction:

 

[ICTGoober]

For quiet acoustics that sound good, IME you'd want to go in this direction]

I've had both. The Chet Atkins steel string sounded okay, but the pickup died and there were no parts available from Gibson. I could have fitted an Ovation pickup, but they were nearly impossible to find, too - and would have required a bit of mod action. Someone else wanted it as is, so I sold it and they put a Bill Lawrence A-400 in the body and kept on trucking.

The Yamaha steel string I have is a first generation model, and it is terrific - plays great, and has some incredible sounds that actually sound like acoustics. No surprise, as one of the sounds is a sampled acoustic. It's got built in effects, too - so no need for pedals or rack gear. It's a keeper....